New Haven

Connecticut Farms with Homemade Ice Cream and Fun Activities for Kids and Families

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Sun, 07/14/2019 - 12:00pm

After a long, hot day at a Connecticut beach, pool, or summer camp, there's no better treat than creamy, cold ice cream. And best yet is homemade ice cream served at one of Connecticut's local farms. While some farms are best for picking berries, peaches, and other summer produce, others are even more famous for their delectable dairy products. Check out these family-friendly farms that offer delicious ice cream as well as rolling green hills, fields, and even animals to check out before or after your treat.

Summer Day Trips in Connecticut for Families that are Fun for Kids

Submitted by Anna Fader on Sun, 06/23/2019 - 3:00pm

When you live in Connecticut and within a short drive of great beaches, state parks, and amuseument park rides, every summer weekend is an opportunity for a quick, easy family day trip with kids. Here, we've collected some outings that Connecticut kids will love, grouped by area so you can easily double up on attractions and create your own itinerary. Click through each link for more information and inspiration, whether you are looking to explore natural beauty, expand knowledge, or scream with delight on a water slide or roller coaster. Find even more summer activities in our Connecticut Summer Fun Guide.

12 Amazing Playgrounds Worth Driving to Across Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Fri, 04/19/2019 - 8:14pm

Now that we have had a few 60 degree days on the books, it's time to pull out the water bottles and pile the kids in the car to hit some of the best playgrounds in Connecticut. All of these playgrounds are unique, fun, and are less than a 45-minute drive away from anywhere in the state. Also, don't forget to check out some of our favorite neighborhood playgrounds in the Hartford and Fairfield areas.

Easter Egg Hunts and Bunny Trains for Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 03/24/2019 - 1:52pm

Hippity hoppity hooray—Easter is on its way! If you're like us and you can't wait any longer for springtime, Cadbury Eggs and cute bonnets, we've got you covered. With everything from glow-in-the-dark egg hunts to egg decorating workshops to Easter train rides, we have rounded up a list of bunny sightings and egg-stravaganzas across the state. Most of these events are geared towards preschoolers and younger elementary age children, so keep that in mind if you have older kids. Also note that some events require pre-registration and are dependent on decent weather, so be sure to check updates before heading out. Have a hopping good time...and check out our post about Easter breakfasts and brunches for even more bunny-themed fun.

25 Free and Affordable Summer Camps in Connecticut

Submitted by Jennifer Coe on Mon, 03/04/2019 - 8:26pm

Once school ends here in Connecticut, parents suddenly face a whole lot of unstructured time for the kids. But don't stress: This is where summer camps come into the picture—and it doesn't have to break the bank. We've made it easy for Connecticut parents to find some less expensive camps throughout the state to keep kids busy and happy this summer. Check out our picks for cheap (and even free) Connecticut summer camps. Remember to inquire with your town's parks and rec department; these camps tend to be very affordable options, too.

St. Patrick's Day Parades and Events for Kids and Families in Connecticut

Submitted by Erin McNamee on Fri, 03/01/2019 - 5:04pm

It's March and you know what that means...St. Patrick's Day! While St. Patrick’s Day celebrations are often thought of as mostly adult-oriented (usually associated with pints of Guinness), there are many kid-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday with wee little ones in Connecticut. Check out our March GoList for more handpicked fun this month.

Connecticut STEM Camps Keep Science and Math Fun All Summer

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Mon, 02/18/2019 - 9:00am

Got a Connecticut kiddo who loves all things science and tech? If so, a STEM summer camp could be a great way to broaden those interests and start your little scientist on a path of lifelong learning. At these enriching, hands-on summer programs in Connecticut, kids ranging in age from preschoolers to teens will have a chance to learn STEM principles, from building a model coral reef to designing and printing 3-D objects to powering a circuit using solar energy.

Check out these STEM summer camps across the state, or take a look at our extensive Summer Camp Guide and Summer Camp Directory for tons of options fit for all interests, including affordable Connecticut camps and sleepway camps.

Where to Celebrate Maple Sugaring Season with Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Jacqueline Miller on Sun, 02/17/2019 - 8:30pm

Soon, sugar houses all across the state get to work on the process of collecting and evaporating clear watery sap into tasty, golden syrup. The traditional maple sugaring season extends from February until late March, though that depends greatly on the weather (freezing nights and warm, sunny days are necessary to provide good sap yields). If you and the kids are interested in learning more about this sweet New England tradition, choose among the many open houses, demonstrations and festivals in Litchfield, Hartford, Fairfield, and New Haven counties. Some sugar houses invite you to stop in anytime the evaporator is running (but call before heading out).

Why Urban Air Adventure Park is Heaven for Active Kids in Connecticut

Submitted by Makayla O'Keefe on Sun, 02/10/2019 - 7:53pm

If you have active kids, you’ve probably visited an indoor trampoline park—they've been popping up all over Connecticut in the past decade. These super-fun facilities are recognized by their wall-to-wall, quilt-like patchwork of trampolines. But then, there’s Urban Air Adventure Park. Marketed as a trampoline park “on steroids,” Urban Air's 84,200 square feet of indoor space also includes go-karts, a zip line, laser tag, a "Ninja Warrior"-inspired play area, a colossal climbing playground, and more. After a recent visit with my kids, I can tell you whether Urban Air is worth the trip; what what not to miss if you go.

10 Indoor Play Spaces in New Haven County for Connecticut Kids

Submitted by Julia Tolstrup on Sun, 01/20/2019 - 8:37pm

If your kids are anything like my two bundles of non-napping energy, there are days when you just need to let them run free – but preferably within a confined indoor space. There are a few notable play areas that are perfect for tiring kids out on cold or wet days in New Haven County, in particular. Inexpensive and varied, each indoor play space has its own charm. For more indoor fun check out our Connecticut Indoor Play Guide.